On 18th May DFDS seaways again played host to a
MARINElife research team undertaking a cetacean and seabird survey
from Dover to Calais and back. The sailing conditions were superb,
with very little glare, which made for really good observation
conditions from the bridge. Sightings included a fantastic close up
view of a male Grey Seal, who remained on the surface until the
ship reached him and then dived under the waves; a Great Skua
disputing with a couple of Great Black-backed Gull for possession
of a floating dead fish and some great views of gannets. They are
such an elegant bird with their streamlined shape and peachy
coloured heads. In the adults their black wing tips contrast with
the crisp white feathers of their wings and upper body, whilst the
younger birds carry black and white 'piano key' markings along the
trailing edges of their wings. Because of this it is possible to
identify the age of each bird, so that kept the team busy.

Plenty of different
species of gulls were also visible, Kittiwake, Great Black-backed
Gull, Herring Gull, approximately 300 Black-headed Gull just inside
the entrance to Calais harbour and mid-channel a juvenile
Mediterranean Gull which was quite a treat. Depressingly, there was
a large variety of flotsam visible during both legs of the
transect. This included a jacket, plastic sheeting, a plastic
crate, planks of wood and helium balloons, all with potential to
harm wildlife through ingestion or collision. You can help to
reduce this sea pollution by simply refusing to purchase balloons,
or, if you are sailing keep an eye on items on deck and ensure they
don't blow away or slide off deck in choppy weather.

As well as being able to survey on the route, it is also
fascinating for the MARINElife volunteers to be able to see the
work of the bridge up close. Not many people get to see the
precision and care which goes into getting you to and from ports,
so many thanks to the Captain and crew of Côte des Flandres for
their hospitality, it was a terrific trip and we hope to travel
with you again soon.